Modular Filter Capsule Apparatus

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a disposable filter capsule apparatus that incorporates integral quick connect components and check valves to facilitate assembly to, and dis-assembly from, larger assemblies and apparatus. The quick connect elements and valves are configured to eliminate the need for auxiliary sealing elements, e.g., o-rings and valve springs so as to prevent unwanted reactions with fluids and/or gases flowing through the capsules, and to further prevent the disposal of expensive re-usable elements in the disposable capsules.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure relates to filter capsules having housings used toenclose filters that separate and remove solid, liquid and/or gaseouscontaminants and/or intermix and introduce one fluid or gas into asecond fluid or gas. More particularly, the disclosure concernsdisposable filter capsules having integrated quick-connect and checkvalve components to improve assembly to, and disassembly from, largerassemblies and apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

To filter fluids and/or gases of undesired contaminants, filtersenclosed in housings or capsules are used to effectuate contaminantremoval. Some capsules are designed for permanent incorporation intolarger apparatuses wherein the filter component(s) is/are replaced asneeded. In other applications, the filter capsule is permanently sealedand the entire capsule is removed and discarded. For disposable units,additional consideration has to be given to the means used to secure thecapsules to larger assemblies so as to minimize the disposal ofotherwise expensive and possibly reusable internal components.

As is commonly known in the filter capsule art, capsule ports, eitherintegral or modular in design, come in a variety of connectionconfigurations including threaded female quick couplings secured to acapsule with corresponding threading, hose barb, tri-clamp, compressionfittings, and molded male quick couplings. Although female quickcouplings are typically connected via threading, the couplings may alsobe attached to a hose barb or like feature with a hose and clamps.

Once assembled to a capsule, the fittings permit the capsule to beconnected to larger assemblies with corresponding, complimentaryfittings. Each of the fitting configurations disclosed above requiresone or more specific implements or tools to effectuate a proper,functional connection. Whether the implement be a wrench, screw driver,pneumatic or electric torque tool, and the like, each means used tosecure a fitting requires adequate space to allow a tool access to thefittings. This inevitably requires apparatus and capsule designs toinclude dimensional accommodations so as to provide additional spaceabout the fittings that would otherwise be unnecessary to accommodateany of the capsule's or larger assembly's components—except, of course,to allow access to the fittings.

A further consideration with respect to disposable capsules is toprevent spillage of fluids and/or gases resident in a capsule when thecapsule is removed for disposal. Preventing the undesirable release ofsimilar substances in the elements of the larger assembly attached tothe capsule, such as hoses, pipes and the like is an equally importantconsideration. Accordingly a means is needed to prevent the unwantedrelease of fluids and/or gases from larger assemblies having attachedfilter capsules and from the capsules themselves, particularly withrespect to potentially hazardous materials when a capsule is removedfrom a larger assembly. Some form of fluid/gas retention components isneeded to secure the ports when the capsule is dis-assembled from thelarger apparatus.

A yet further consideration is the selection of materials used constructthe internal components of the capsule. Material selection is ofteninfluenced by the fluids and/or gases introduced into the capsule. Thecapsule components, e.g., o-rings and valve springs have to be made ofmaterials that do not react with the introduced fluids and/or gases soas to prevent the formation and possible release of undesirablesubstances and contaminants into the fluid and/or gas stream. Any suchreactions may also lead to component degradation and failure. O-ringmaterial, in particular, can often be incompatible with the intendedfluids and/or gases. Degradation of o-ring seals can lead to leakingjoints and contaminated fluids and/or gases. This problem cansignificantly limit the applications to which a filter capsule can beutilized.

What is needed is a disposable capsule that incorporates fittings thatallow removal of the capsule without the unwanted release of containedfluids and/or gases. What is further needed are connector fittings thatreduce the space needed to assemble and dis-assemble the capsule to andfrom larger assemblies. What is still further needed is a capsule designthat does not incorporate reusable, expensive components. What is yetfurther needed is a filter capsule that eliminates the need for internalcapsule components that can undesirably react to fluids and/or gasesintroduced into the capsule. These and other objects of the disclosurewill become apparent from a reading of the following summary anddetailed description of the disclosure as well as a review of theappended drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In one aspect of the disclosure, a filter capsule includes a pair ofports each constructed with integral female quick connect fittings. Acheck valve is incorporated into each port to prevent fluid/gas flowinto or out of the capsule when in a closed position. The check valveincludes a valve spring to bias the valve in a closed position. Ano-ring positioned in the port provides a seal and a valve seat for thecheck valve.

In another aspect of the disclosure, a filter capsule includes a pair ofintegral ports, each constructed with integrated female quick connectfittings. A check valve is also incorporated into each fitting toprevent the flow of fluids and/or gases into or out of the capsule whenin a closed position. The check valve includes a valve spring configuredto bias the valve in a closed position until a corresponding fitting issecured to the female fitting. A shoulder is formed in the integralports to register against a face of the check valve, the combination ofwhich forms a substantially leak-free face seal.

In a yet further aspect of the disclosure, a filter capsule is formedwith a pair of integrated ports having integrated female quick connectfittings. A check valve is incorporated into each port to prevent theunwanted flow of fluids and/or gases into or out of the capsule when thevalve is in a closed position. Portions of the check valve form a seriesof increasingly larger diameter annular substantially concentric ringsthat form an angular serrated surface cross-section that forms a sealwhen registered against an annular frustoconical surface formed insideeach port.

In another aspect of the disclosure, the ports include quick couplingfittings to facilitate expedient, efficient and reliable connection anddisassembly to larger assemblies or to dedicated ingress or egresstubes. Each coupling may be configured as either a male or femalefitting to accommodate a variety of connection configurations andrequirements. Each coupling may further be configured to include a checkvalve integrated with either a male or female configured fitting. Inplace of a valve biasing spring, a valve retention lever or valveretention ring secures the valve in a closed position until portions ofa corresponding, complimentary fitting register against the fitting andvalve and overcome the closing force of the retention lever. These andother aspects of the disclosure will become apparent from a review ofthe appended drawings and a reading of the following detaileddescription of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side partial sectional view of a filter capsule with aninlet port configured with a female fitting and a check valve assemblyin a closed position including a valve stem with a face seal segment anda valve spring according to one aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side partial sectional view of a filter capsule with aninlet port and valve assembly in an open position according to theaspect of the disclosure shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side partial sectional view of a filter capsule with aninlet port configured with a female fitting and a check valve assemblyin a closed position including a valve stem with a valve spring and ano-ring valve seat according to another aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a side partial sectional view of a filter capsule with aninlet port and valve assembly in an open position according to theaspect of the disclosure shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a side partial sectional view of a filter capsule with aninlet port configured with a female fitting and a check valve assemblyin a closed position including a valve stem with a face seal and a valveretention ring according to a further aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a side partial sectional view of a filter capsule with aninlet port and valve assembly in an open position according to theaspect of the disclosure shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a partially exploded perspective view of the filter capsuleconfigured according to the aspect of the disclosure shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a side partial sectional view of a filter capsule with aninlet port and valve assembly in a closed position and constructedaccording to the aspect of the disclosure shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 9 is a sectional view of the valve stem face seal according to theaspects of the disclosure shown in FIGS. 1, 5 and 8.

FIG. 10 is a side partial sectional view of a filter capsule with aninlet port and valve assembly in an open position and constructedaccording to the aspect of the disclosure shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 11 is a top, side perspective view of a male fitting correspondingto, and complimentary to, the female fittings shown in FIGS. 1-10according to one aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the male fitting shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a side sectional view of an inlet/outlet port with anintegral female fitting and a check valve assembly in a closed positionincluding a valve stem with a valve spring and an o-ring valve seataccording to the aspect of the disclosure shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

FIG. 14 is a top, side perspective view of the inlet/outlet port shownin FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a side sectional view of an inlet/outlet port with anintegral female fitting and a check valve assembly in a closed positionincluding a valve stem with a face seal and a valve spring according tothe aspect of the disclosure shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 16 is a top, side perspective view of the inlet/outlet port shownin FIG. 15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, in one aspect of the disclosure, a filtercapsule apparatus is shown generally as 10. Capsule 10 includes asubstantially cylindrical body 12 that defines a generally hollow filterchamber configured to hold one or more filters (not shown). Capsule 10may be formed in other regular or irregular geometric shapes internallyand/or externally to accommodate dimensional and configuration needs oflarger assemblies to which the capsule is attached and/or to accommodatea wide variety filter shape configurations depending upon theapplication. A cylindrical embodiment will be used for illustrativepurposes.

Body 12 may be constructed in halves, dimensionally identical ornon-identical with a midline or offset seam, to allow for the insertionof a filter. The halves are joined and fused together at seam 14 viafriction fit, interference fit with mechanical interlocking features,adhesive, sonic welding and like. Seam 14 may be configured as apermanent seal, or as a releasable seal, particularly if mechanicalinterlocking features such a threading, key and slot configurations, andbayonet-style locking features are used.

Extending outwardly from body 12 are ports 16. Ports 16 may bepositioned at any locations on the capsule body provided the locationspromote the flow of fluid introduced into the capsule through thefilter. One port will function as an inlet while the other shallfunction as an outlet. It is within the contemplation of the disclosureto have more than two ports including two or more inlets, two or moreoutlets and combinations thereto. Each port 16 has portions defining aport chamber. A top end of the port chamber is open to receive fluidsand/or gases delivered via tubes and other like elements connected tothe port. A bottom end of the port chamber is in fluid communicationwith the capsule main chamber defined by capsule body 12.

It should be understood that the flow of fluids and/or gases through thevarious ports can be reversed without any reduction in function of thefilter capsule. More specifically, what has been identified as an inletport may function as an outlet port and what has been identified as anoutlet port may function as an inlet port. In addition, what has beenidentified as a vent port may be utilized as either an inlet, or anoutlet port. The apparatus is designed to permit functional flow ineither direction.

For purposes of this disclosure, any reference to a “downward direction”will refer to portions of a capsule element located relatively proximalto the main body of the capsule or movement of fluids and/or gasestoward the capsule main body regardless of the spatial or referentialorientation of the capsule. Any reference to an “upward or outwarddirection” will refer to portions of a capsule element locatedrelatively distal from the main body of the capsule or movement offluids and/or gases away from the capsule main body. Any reference to a“bottom” of an element will refer to that portion of the elementproximal or closest to the capsule main chamber. Any reference to a“top” of an element will refer to that portion of the element distal orfurthest from the capsule main chamber.

The selection of which port to use as an inlet is driven by theorientation of the capsule to a larger assembly. Each port may functionas either an inlet port or an outlet port. The enclosed filter may beconstructed for one-way or bi-directional flow. The filter may also beconstructed with hydrophilic and hydrophobic sections, dedicatedhydrophilic and/or hydrophobic layers in multi-layer configurations andcombinations thereof. The configuration of the filter used can dictatewhich port will function as an inlet.

Also extending from the capsule are one or more vent ports 26 used toallow for off-gassing of unwanted trapped air or fluids and/or toregister the internal pressure of the capsule to ambient pressure. Ventports 26 are initially opened to vent out resident gas when capsule 10is being filled with the desired fluid and/or gas. The vent ports areotherwise closed during normal operation, or periodically opened forlimited periods of time to allow for the release of unwanted accumulatedair and/or gas in the filter chamber. In the illustrative embodiment,vent ports 26 are formed on radially opposing ends of capsule body 12 toensure and to maximize air and/or gas evacuation regardless of thecapsule orientation.

Referring again to ports 16 as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 13 and 14, each porthas portions defining an integral quick connect fitting. In theillustrative embodiment, two female quick connect fittings are shown inthe referenced figures. It should be understood the use of two malequick connect fittings or combinations of male and female quick connectfittings is within the contemplation, scope and spirit of thedisclosure. Each female fitting includes a substantially annular flange30 having portions defining an inner annular channel 17 configured toreceive a locking sleeve 24 configured and dimensioned to slide radiallyinwardly and outwardly within channel 17. Channel 17 is furtherconnected to an external slot 17 a configured and dimensioned to receivean exposed portion of sleeve 24 as shown in FIG. 7.

Sleeve 24 is biased with a spring or other like element to remain in aclosed/locked position. This ensures any fitting secured to the capsulewill remain secured until the deliberate application of a force todisengage sleeve 24 from a resident fitting. A spring-actuated lockingpin 76 secures sleeve 24 in a locked position. Pin 76 is positioned in abore formed in the annular top surface of the port so as to orient thepin orthogonal to the plane occupied by the top surface. A bottom end ofpin 76 and a pin biasing spring (not shown) is housed in pin housing 74formed, or attached to, outer wall 70 of port 16. A sleeve-releasinglatch 78 is secured to flange 30 and has portions extending withinchannel 17, the ends of which register against sleeve 24.

Radial displacement of sleeve 24 is accomplished by exerting a force onthe sleeve with a male fitting such as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 morefully disclosed below, or by mechanically retracting sleeve 24 radiallyoutwardly by hand or with the assistance of an appropriate gripping toolas is well known in the art, or by activation of latch 78.

When latch 78 is depressed radially inwardly by manual force, portionsof the latch registered against sleeve 24 urge the sleeve radiallyoutwardly into an open position. This causes a key slot in sleeve 24 totravel along (radially stationary) pin 76 that extends through the slot.Once the enlarged key-hole portion of the slot passes the plane occupiedby pin 76, pin 76, due to it complimentary dimension, is dislodged fromthe restricting surfaces of the narrower portion of the slot so as to bedisengaged and urged upwardly by the force of the spring. When pin 76 isin an “up” position, portions of pin 76 now in registration with sleeve24 mechanically block sleeve 24 from travelling back to the lockedposition.

Insertion of male fitting 40 into port 16 is required to re-set pin 76to allow for sleeve 24 to move back to the locked position. As fitting40 moves into port 16 an annular shoulder 41 engages pin 76 and urgespin 76 downwardly into a sleeve-release position. The downward movementof pin 76 releases lock sleeve 24 and permits the sleeve to moveinwardly about pin 76 so as to register against and engage an annularchannel formed on the outer surface of male fitting 40 so as to securethe fitting in a locked relation with port 16. A more detaileddescription of male fitting 40 and the method of engagement to port 16is disclosed below.

Port 16 is substantially cylindrical in shape and has an inner wall 72that defines a substantially cylindrical chamber 73 in fluidcommunication with a main chamber defined by capsule body 12. Thejunction of the inner wall 72 and the main body inner wall forms anannular, tapered, partially frustoconical transition shoulder 19 thatfunctions as a valve seat for a check valve assembly. The smallerdiameter end of the taper is positioned upwardly toward the port topwhile the larger diameter end of the taper is positioned toward thecapsule main body. It should be understood the degree of taper and thecontinuity of the taper can be adjusted to receive different valveconfigurations. The taper may also be replaced with a series of steppedannular shoulders with each shoulder having an incrementally smallercross sectional diameter so as to collectively form a tapered transitionfrom the capsule main body to the port.

Secured in the port chamber is a check valve comprising a valve stem 18configured and dimensioned to slide along a longitudinal axis of theport. The check valve provides a means to prevent the release of fluidsor spillage when capsule 10 is assembled to a larger apparatus ordisassembled for replacement or service. As shown more specifically inFIG. 13, stem 18 is formed as an elongate, substantially hollow cylinderwith a plurality of lateral ports 20 defined by an outer wall of thestem. It should be understood the overall shape and dimensions of thestem are configured to be complimentary to, and to correspond with, theport chamber. Any modification of the metric structure of the portchamber will include a corresponding modification of the valve stemconfiguration.

Lateral ports 20 provide fluid communication between the inner valvechamber and port chamber 73 and increase the overall area available forfluid and/or gas intake (or egress if the port is used as an exit port).Extending radially from a top portion of stem 18 are valve flanges 21.In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 7, four flanges are formedextending from stem 18. Flanges 21 are dimensioned to fit within portchamber 73 so as to allow the substantially free translational movementof stem 18 within the port chamber, but with sufficiently tighttolerances to ensure the valve is maintained centered in the chamberthroughout its range of movement. The gaps between the flanges providechannels for fluids and/or gases to enter the port and flow around andthrough the valve stem when placed in an open position.

In an alternative embodiment, flanges 21 do not create an entire ringaround the valve stem top, but are formed as a ribbed flange to maintainalignment of valve stem 18 in port 16 during translational movementwithin the port and to maximize the area for fluid flow into thecapsule. It should be understood that fluids and/or gases introducedinto the port will envelope the valve down to the sealing portion of thevalve located at the bottom of the valve stem 18 whether or not thevalve is in an open or closed position when port 16 is connected to afluid and/or gas source.

A bottom end 29 of stern 18 has portions defining an annular channel 33dimensioned and configured to receive an o-ring 32. O-ring 32 isdimensioned and configured for insertion into channel 33 and isassembled to, and secured in, channel 33 after valve stem 18 has beeninserted into port 16. It should be understood the method of assemblingo-ring 32 to valve stem 18 does not impact its function as a stalingmeans as long as o-ring 32 is properly seated in channel 33.

O-ring 32 may be constructed from common elastomers, e.g., silicon,nitrite, EPDM, fluoroelastomers such as Viton®. The choice of materialmay be dictated by the fluids and/or gases to be introduced into thecapsule. The o-ring materials should be selected so as not to react withthe and/or gases.

An outer annular surface of o-ring 32 extends radially proud of thevalve stem outer wall so as to register against shoulder 19 when stem 18is positioned in port chamber 73. When valve stem 18 is in a closedposition, o-ring 32 registers against port shoulder 19 and prevents theflow of fluids and/or gases, introduced into the port, into the maincapsule chamber.

To secure valve stem 18 in a closed position, a substantiallycylindrical helical coil valve spring 28, axially loaded in tension, ispositioned superposed about valve stem 18. A top end of spring 28registers against a flange bottom surface 25 of flanges 21 while abottom end registers against an annular spring support shoulder 31formed at a lower end of the port inner wall. It should be understoodshoulder 31 does not have to be continuous, but may be segmented as longas the surface area provided for spring registration is adequate tosupport and maintain the alignment of spring 28 within port 16. Anchoredagainst shoulder 31, spring 28 maintains valve stem 18 in a closed,sealed position by urging o-ring 32 against transition shoulder 19.Spring 28 may be constructed from any metal-based, or non-metal,polymer-based material commonly used to fabricate springs as is wellknown in the art.

When a force sufficient to exceed the pre-set axial force of spring 28is applied to the top of valve stem 18, such as by inserting a malefitting as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 into port 16, valve stem 18 is urgeddownwardly into the main capsule chamber, which causes o-ring 32 toseparate from transition shoulder 19. The annular gap formed by theretraction of valve stem 18 coupled with lateral ports 20 and the gapsbetween valve flanges 21 allows for the in-flow of fluids and/or gasesfor filtration. Conversely, if the port being opened is the outlet port,the gap formed allows for the egress of filtered fluids and/or gasespast valve stem 18 and out the port.

To limit the downward travel of stem 18 into port chamber 73, asubstantially annular valve stop shoulder 35 is formed to extendradially inwardly from inner wall 72 so as to provide a registrationsurface for flanges 21. More specifically, stem 18 travels downwardlyinto port chamber 73 until flange bottom surfaces 25 register againststop shoulder 35.

In another aspect of the disclosure as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 9, 15 and16, a port/valve configuration includes a face seal to eliminate theneed for an o-ring seal. By eliminating the need for an o-ring, a sourceof possible contamination and unwanted reaction with introduced fluidsand/or gases is also eliminated. This automatically broadens thepotential applications for the novel capsule. Moreover, the costassociated with the incorporation of a potentially expensive componentin the form of an o-ring may be avoided. This is of particularimportance when the capsule is designed for complete periodicreplacement within a replacement schedule that would otherwise notexceed or extend to the life expectancy of the o-ring. By eliminatingthe need for an o-ring, the disposal of an otherwise functional andexpensive part is also avoided.

In this embodiment the filter capsule shown generally as 10′ includes asimilar construction to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Forpurposes of this disclosure, primed reference character numbers refer toelements that correspond to similar, or the same, elements in otherdisclosed embodiments labeled with unprimed or differently primednumbers.

Capsule 10′ includes a substantially cylindrical body 12′ that defines agenerally hollow filter chamber configured to hold one or more filters(not shown). Capsule 10′ may be formed in other regular or irregulargeometric shapes to accommodate dimensional and configuration needs oflarger assemblies to which the capsule is attached and/or to accommodatea wide variety of filter shape configurations depending upon theapplication.

Like the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, body 12′ may be constructedin halves, identical or non-identical with an offset seam, to allow forthe insertion of a filter. The halves are joined and fused together viafriction fit, mechanical interlocking features, adhesive, sonic weldingand like at seam 14′. Seam 14′ may be configured as a permanent seal, oras a releasable seal to allow for filter replacement.

Extending outwardly from body 12′ are ports 16′. Ports 16′ may bepositioned at any points on the capsule body so long as the locationspromote the flow of fluid introduced into the capsule through thefilter. One port will function as an inlet while the other shallfunction as an outlet. Like the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, thecapsule configuration may be constructed with a plurality of ports, eachof which may have a dedicated function as an inlet or an outlet. Eachport 16′ has an inner wall 72′ that defines a port chamber 73′. A topend of the port chamber is open to receive fluids and/or gases deliveredvia tubes and other like elements connected to port 16′. A bottom end ofthe port chamber is in fluid communication with the capsule main chamberdefined by capsule body 12′.

Secured in each port chamber is a valve stem 18′ configured anddimensioned to slide along a longitudinal axis of the port. Stem 18′ isformed as an elongate, substantially hollow cylinder with a plurality oflateral ports 20′ defined by an outer wall of the stem. It should beunderstood the overall shape and dimensions of the stem are configuredto be complimentary to, and to correspond with, the port chamber. Anymodification of the geometric structure of the port chamber will includea corresponding modification of the valve stem configuration.

Lateral ports 20′ provide fluid communication between the inner valvechamber and the port chamber and increase the overall area available forfluid and/or gas intake (or egress if the port is used as an exit port).Extending radially from a top portion of stern 18′ are valve flanges21′. Flanges 21′ are dimensioned to fit within the port chamber so as toallow for the substantially free translational movement of stem 18′within the port chamber, but with sufficiently tight tolerances toensure the valve s maintained in a center position in the chamberthroughout its range of movement. The gaps between the flanges providechannels for fluids and/or gases to enter the port and to flow aroundand through the valve stem when placed in an open position.

In an alternative embodiment, flanges 21′ do not create an entire ringaround the valve stem top, but are formed collectively as a ribbedflange to maintain alignment of valve stem 18′ in port 16′ duringtranslational movement within the port and to maximize the area forfluid flow into the capsule. It should be understood that fluids and/orgases introduced into the port will envelope the valve down to thesealing portion of the valve located at the bottom of the valve stem 18′whether or not the valve is in an open or closed position when port 16′is connected to a fluid and/or gas source.

Referring again to FIGS. 1, 2, 9. 15 and 16, in place of annular channel33 of valve stem 18, a bottom portion of stem 18′ includes an annular,bulbous, substantially continuous bottom flange 29′ dimensioned to havea cross-sectional diameter larger than the cross-sectional diameter ofport chamber 73′. A top portion of flange 29′ is formed with a pluralityof concentrically oriented shoulders 22′ each of which has across-sectional diameter sufficient to register against shoulder 19′.Collectively, shoulders 22′ form a face seal when registered againstport shoulder 19′. The use of multiple contact points along the lengthof shoulder 19′ ensures a positive seal is created despite anymanufacturing defects or imperfections in the formation of shoulder 19′or shoulders 22′.

It should be understood, the top portion of flange 29′ may also beformed as a continuous, substantially smooth frustoconical surface witha taper complimentary to, and corresponding to, the frustoconicalsurface of transition shoulder 19′. This configuration increased thesurface area of contact to form the face seal, but may not be asefficacious to account for manufacturing and surface defects of thecontacting surfaces as is the construction using the plurality ofshoulders 22′.

As flanges 29′ and 29″ (disclosed below) have cross-sectional diametersgreater than the cross-sectional diameters of port chambers 73′ and 73″,respectively, insertion of valve stems 18′ and 18″ (disclosed more fullybelow), require the valve stems to be constructed in two segments. Afirst valve segment includes flange 29′ (or flange 29″ for the apparatus10″ embodiment) with features configured for a press-fit assembly. Asecond segment includes the upper portion of the valve stem with valveflanges 21′ (or flanges 21″ for the apparatus 10″ embodiment) and thesmaller cross-sectional diameter portion of the valve stem. The secondsegment is also constructed with, features corresponding to the firstsegment press-fit features to accommodate a press-fit assembly. Itshould be understood, the junction of the two segments can be at anylocation from above flange 19 to below valve flanges 21′ (or flange 19″and flanges 21″ for apparatus 10″).

With respect to apparatus 10″ constructed with retention ring 23, thefirst segment is inserted into port 16″ from the interior of the capsulehalf from which port 16″ extends. The second segment is inserted intoport 16″ from its top open end and press-fit into the first segmentwhile an opposing force is applied to the first segment. Once thefeatures interlock, valve stem 18′ is ready for operation.

With respect to apparatus 10′, the same procedure is followed toconstruct valve stem 18′ except that a force sufficient to overcome theaxial force of valve spring 28′ has to be applied to the second segmentas it is forced downwardly towards the first segment so as to engage thefirst segment and form the press-fit joint. As with apparatus 10″, aforce also has to be applied to the bottom of the first segment toprepare it for reception of the second segment. It should be understoodthe portions forming the press-fit joint for this embodiment (apparatus10′) have to be sufficiently robust to exceed the axial force of spring28′ when in a fully compressed position.

It should be further understood the two segments of the valve stems canbe secured tog ether using alternative or additional means such asthermal fusion. The thermal fusion step may be accomplished by meltingthe joining surfaces of the two sag merits before assembly and allowingthe joined segments to fuse together as the melted portions cool. Analternative fusion method is to apply ultrasonic fusion as is well knownin the art.

Referring exclusively again to apparatus 10′, like the embodiment shownin FIGS. 3 and 4, valve stem 18′ is urged into a closed position by avalve spring 28′. The construction and positioning of valve spring 28′is essentially the same as valve spring 28. Valve spring 28′ is asubstantially cylindrical helical coil valve spring, axially loaded intension, and superposed about valve stem 18′. A top end of valve spring28′ registers against bottom surface 25′ of flanges 21′ while a bottomend registers against an annular spring support shoulder 31′ formed at alower end of the port inner wall. Like shoulder 31, shoulder 31′ doesnot have to be continuous, but may be segmented as long as the surfacearea provided for spring registration is adequate to support andmaintain the alignment of spring 28′ within port 16′. Anchored againstshoulder 31′, spring 28′ maintains valve stem 18′ in a closed, sealedposition by urging bottom flange 29′ against shoulder 19′.

When a force sufficient to exceed the pre-set axial force of spring 28′is applied to a the top of valve stem 18′, such as by inserting a malefitting as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 into port 16′, valve stem 18′ isurged downwardly into the main capsule chamber, which causes bottomflange 29′ to separate from shoulder 19′. The annular gap formed by theretraction of valve stem 18′ coupled with lateral ports 20′ and the gapsbetween valve flanges 21′ allows for the in-flow of fluids and/or gasesfor filtration. Conversely, if the port being opened is the outlet port,the gap formed allows for the egress of filtered fluids and/or gasespast valve stem 18′ and out the port. Once the force used to open thevalve is removed or terminated, spring 28′ urges stem 18′ back into aclosed position with flange 29′ registered against transition shoulder19′.

In a yet further aspect of the disclosure as shown in FIGS. 5-10, aport/valve configuration includes the previously disclosed face seal ofapparatus 10′ so as to eliminate the need for an o-ring seal andincorporates a valve retention ring to eliminate the need for a spring.The advantages of eliminating the o-ring in this embodiment are the sameas set forth hereinabove. The elimination of the valve spring impartssimilar advantages to those obtained with the elimination of the o-ring.

By eliminating the need for a valve spring, a further source of possiblecontamination arid unwanted reaction with introduced fluids and/or gasesis eliminated. This again, broadens the potential applications for thenovel capsule. In addition, the cost associated with the constructionand incorporation of a potentially expensive component in the form of avalve spring is avoided. This is of particular importance when thecapsule is designed for complete periodic replacement within areplacement schedule that would otherwise not exceed or extend to thelife expectancy of the valve spring. By eliminating the need for a valvespring, the disposal of an otherwise functional and expensive part islikewise avoided.

In this embodiment, a filter capsule shown generally as 10″ includes asimilar construction to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-4. Capsule 10″includes a substantially cylindrical body 12″ that defines a generallyhollow main filter chamber configured to hold one or more filters (notshown). Like the other embodiments, capsule 10″ may be formed in otherregular or irregular geometric shapes to accommodate dimensional andconfiguration needs of larger assemblies to which the capsule isattached and/or to accommodate a wide variety of filter shapeconfigurations depending upon the application.

Like the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4, body 12″ may be constructed inhalves, identical or non-identical with an offset seam, to allow for theinsertion of a filter. The halves are joined and fused together viafriction fit, mechanical interlocking features, adhesive, sonic weldingand the like at seam 14″. Seam 14″ may be configured as a permanentseal, or as a releasable seal to allow for filter replacement.

Extending outwardly from body 12″ are ports 16″. Ports 16″ may bepositioned at any points on the capsule body so long as the locationspromote the flow of fluid introduced into the capsule through thefilter. One port will be selected to function as an inlet while theother shall function as an outlet. Like the embodiment shown in FIGS.1-4, the capsule configuration may be constructed with a plurality ofports, each of which may have a dedicated function as an inlet or anoutlet. Each port 16″ has portions defining a port chamber. A top end ofthe port chamber is open to receive fluids and/or gases delivered viatubes and other like elements connected to port 16″. A bottom end of theport chamber is in fluid communication with the capsule main chamberdefined by capsule body 12″.

Secured in each port chamber is a valve stem 18″ configured anddimensioned to slide along a longitudinal axis of the port. The means tosecure valve stem 18″ to port 16″ is disclosed above. Stem 18″ is formedas an elongate, substantially hollow (and segmented for assemblypurposes) cylinder with a plurality of lateral ports 20″ defined by anouter wall of the stem. It should be understood the overall shape anddimensions of the stem are configured to be complimentary to, and tocorrespond with, the port chamber. Any modification of the geometricstructure of the port chamber will include a corresponding modificationof the valve stem configuration.

Lateral ports 20″ provide fluid communication between the inner valvechamber and port chamber 73″ and increase the overall area available forfluid and/or gas intake (or egress if the port is used as an exit port)Extending radially from a top portion of stem 18″ are valve flanges 21″.Flanges 21″ are dimensioned to fit within the port chamber so as toalloy for the substantially free translational movement of stem 18″within the port chamber, but with sufficiently tight tolerances toensure the valve is maintained in a center position in the chamberthroughout its range of movement. The gaps between the flanges providechannels for fluids and/or gases to enter the port and flow around andthrough the valve stem when placed in an open position.

In an alternative embodiment, flanges 21″ do not create an entire ringaround the valve stem top, but are formed as a ribbed flange to maintainalignment of valve stem 18″ in port 16″ during translational movementwithin the port and to maximize the area for fluid flow into thecapsule. It should be understood that fluids and/or gases will envelopethe valve down to the sealing portion of the valve located at the bottomof the valve stem 18″ whether or not the valve is in an open or closedposition when port 16″ is connected to a fluid and/or gas source.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-10, like valve stem 18′, valve stem 18″replaces an annular channel and o-ring with an annular, substantiallycontinuous bottom flange 29′ dimensioned to have a cross-sectionaldiameter larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the port chamber. Atop portion of flange 29′ is formed with a plurality of concentricallyoriented shoulders 22′ each of which has a cross-sectional diametersufficient to register against shoulder 19″. Collectively, shoulders 22″form a face seal when registered against port shoulder 19″. As withembodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the use of multiple contact pointsalong the length of shoulder 19″ ensures a positive seal is createddespite any manufacturing defects or imperfections in the formation ofshoulder 19″ or shoulders 22″. Also like apparatus 10′, the top portionof flange 29′ may be formed with a substantially continuous smoothfrustoconical surface to register against transition shoulder 19″.

Unlike the other embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-4, valve stem 18″ is urgedinto a closed position by a valve retention ring shown generally as 23in FIG. 7 Retention ring 23 has a substantially circular perimeter incross-section. An outer edge of ring 23 forms a circular rim 23 b.Extending radially inwardly from rim 23 b is one or more valve retentionlevers 23 a that may, or may not extend to a point of mutual contact.The material used to construct ring 23 allows levers 23 a to flex in adownwardly direction when a force is applied to valve stem 18″.

Retention ring 23 is dimensioned and configured to fit within port 16″.An annular shoulder 35 is formed in capsule body 12″ below the locationof, and substantially concentric with, shoulder 19″ to provide a supportsurface against which ring 23 registers. Like shoulders 31 and 31′ inthe prior disclosed embodiments, shoulder 35 does not have to becontinuous, but may be segmented as long as the surface area is adequateto support and maintain the alignment of retention ring 23 in port 16″.Anchored against shoulder 35, retention ring 23 and the pre-set tensionof levers 23 a maintain valve stem 18″ in a closed, sealed position byurging bottom flange 29″ against shoulder 19″. Ring 23 may bepermanently secured to shoulder 35, or may simply be placed on theshoulder. Once valve stem 18″ is inserted into the port, bottom flange29″ registers against ring 23 and combines with shoulder 35 to securethe ring in the port/capsule body junction.

To open the valve in this configuration, a force sufficient to exceedthe pre-set tension force of ring 23 and levers 23 a is applied to thetop of valve stem 18″, such as by inserting a male fitting as shown inFIGS. 11 and 12 into port 16″. The application of force is transferredthrough valve stem 18″ and exerted against levers 23 a via flange 29″ tourge the levers downwardly into the main capsule chamber. This causesbottom flange 29 to move downwardly and separate from shoulder 19″ so asto form an annular gap between shoulder 19″ and flange 29″. The annulargap formed by the retraction of valve stem 18″ coupled with lateralports 20″ and the gaps between valve flanges 21″ allows for the in-flowof fluids and/or gases for filtration. Conversely, if the port beingopened is the outlet port, the gap formed allows for the egress offiltered fluids and/or gases past valve stem 18″ and out the port.Removal of the male fitting and/or removal of the pressure exertedagainst valve stem 18″ returns the valve stem to the pre-biased closedposition.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, a male fitting shown generally as 40is configured and adapted for connection to the female quick connectfittings disclosed herein. Fitting 40 has a generallycylindrically-shaped main body 42 with an inner wall 66 defining a maleport chamber. Extending from one end of fitting 40 is an integral sleevehousing 54 with an inner wall that defines a sleeve housing chamber influid communication with the male port chamber. Secured in sleevehousing 54 is a male insertion tube 44 dimensioned and configured toslide within the sleeve housing chamber. The dimensional tolerancesbetween an outer wall of tube 44 and the inner wall of sleeve housing 54are set to promote a substantially air-tight seal during tubetranslation within the sleeve housing. The lubricious properties of thematerials used to construct tube 44 and sleeve housing 54 permit andfacilitate the translational movement of tube 44 in housing 54.

Tube 44 has an inner wall that defines a tube chamber of which aproximal end is open to the atmosphere when not engaged with a femalefitting. A proximal end of tube 44 extends from sleeve housing 54 so asto allow insertion into the open end of any embodiment of the femaleports disclosed herein. A distal end of tube 44 has portions definingmale lateral ports 45 which provide fluid communication between the tubechamber and the sleeve housing chamber when tube 44 is depressed intothe housing chamber as disclosed below.

A plunger 58 having a generally cylindrical shape is configured anddimensioned to fit within sleeve housing 54 for registration against adistal end of tube 44. At one end, plunger 58 has portions defining aplunger shoulder 60 configured and dimensioned to receive a plungerspring 48. At the opposite end, the plunger is tapered to accommodatethe tapered shape of the distal end of the sleeve housing. The taperedconfiguration ensures plunger 58 remains in a concentric relationshipwith sleeve housing 54. This ensures a positive seal. A distal tip ofthe plunger is configured to register against tube 44.

Spring 48 is a substantially cylindrical helical coil spring, axiallyloaded in tension, and dimensioned to fit within sleeve housing 54. Thematerials used to construct spring 48 are the same as disclosed forspring 28. Particular attention should be made to the selection ofspring material as the spring is positioned so as to contact fluidsand/or gases flowing through the fitting. One end of spring 48 registersagainst shoulder 60. A distal cylindrical projection 61 maintains spring48 in concentric relationship with plunger 58. The other end of spring48 is secured in a spring cap 50. Cap 50 has portions defining a springchamber 51 dimensioned and configured to receive spring 48.

A bottom end of chamber 51 is defined by an annular chamber shoulder 55.Shoulder 55 provides a registration surface for spring 48. A furtheroutlet chamber 53 formed concentric to, and in fluid communication with,chamber 51 provides a means to receive additional apparatus to allow forthe flow of fluids and/or gases through male fitting 40.

Cap 50 has a generally cylindrical main body 57 dimensioned andconfigured for insertion into the male port chamber. An annular capflange 59 registers against an annular cap channel 61 configured anddimensioned to receive cap flange 59. Cap 50 is secured to main body 42via friction fit, mechanical interlock, adhesive, sonic weld, fusionbond, and the like. The combination of cap 50 and spring 48 urge plunger58 against tube 44 to maintain the tube in a closed position.

Sleeve housing 54 has portions defining an annular o-ring chamber 52dimensioned and configured to receive an o-ring 46. O-ring 46 provides aseal between the inner wall of female port 16 and the outer wall ofhousing 54 when the fittings are joined. Sleeve housing 54 has furtherportions defining an annular lock channel 56 dimensioned and configuredto receive lock sleeve 24.

To connect male fitting 40 and female port 16, male fitting 40 is urgedinto port 16. The proximal end of tube 44 registers against valve stem18 and urges the valve stem downwardly so as to open the fluid/gaschannel in port 16 for access to the, capsule main chamber.Substantially simultaneous with the movement of the valve stem, tube 44is urged downwardly against plunger 58 so as to create a gap betweenplunger 58 and the tapered portion of inner wall 66. Movement of tube 44into the male port chamber creates fluid communication between the maleport chamber and the tube chamber via male lateral ports 45. Insertionof male fitting 40 is completed when sleeve housing 54 enters port 16 soas to engage the seal of o-ring 46 and lock sleeve 24 moves radiallyinwardly into lock channel 56 to lock the male and female fittingstogether after pin 76 is depressed by shoulder 41.

This configuration is particularly advantageous as o-ring 46 is notplaced within the fluid and/or gas stream created when the capsule isattached to a lager assembly. When the spring-free and o-ring-freefemale port embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-10 is used in conjunction withthe disclosed male fitting 40 no o-rings or springs in the femalefitting (except spring 48 in male fitting 40) are exposed to the fluidsand/or gases flowing through the filter capsule and associated couplingsand tubes. The limitations of prior art systems are thus eliminated.

The materials used to construct capsule 10 and male fitting 40 and anyvariations and embodiments thereof may be the same for all thecomponents. The components may be constructed via conventional injectionmolding processes well known in the art with any thermal plasticmaterials, including, but not limited to, acrylic,acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resins (ABS), Polypropylene (PP),Polyethylene (PE), nylon, Polysulfone, Perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) polymerresin, Polycarbonate (PC), PS, Polyethersulfone (PES),Ethylene-clorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (ECTFE), Polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF), Polyoxymethylene (POM or Acetal) and mixtures thereof.The material used is primarily driven by the intended application of thefilter capsule and the fluids, gases and conditions to which the capsulewill be exposed, e.g., acidic fluids and high heat environments. Itshould be understood other materials and manufacturing methods wellknown in the art may be used to construct these components.

Retention ring 23 may be made of similar or different materials from thecapsule and male fitting depending upon the amount of flexion desiredfor a particular configuration. As should be understood, the moreinternal pressure the capsule is exposed to, the less flexion retentionring 23 should have so as to ensure a seal is maintained in the capsule.In one illustrative embodiment, retention ring 23 should be sufficientlyrigid to prevent fluid and/or gas leaks when exposed to pressures fromabout 0.001 MPa to about 0.5 MPa.

Each filter media may comprise one layer or multiple layers each havingthe same or different micron retention sizes. Filter pore sizes mayrange from about 0.01 microns to about 50 microns and up. The media maybe constructed from a number of manufacturing processes including, butnot limited to, wet-laid processes (similar to papermaking), wetcasting, melt-cast, or dry processes such as air-laid, melt-blown,spun-bond, bi-directional stretching, etc. as is well known in the art.

Each filter media is constructed from microporous, hydrophilic orhydrophobic membranes, including, but not limited to, the materials suchas poyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyethersulfone, polysulfone,cellulose acetate, Polytetrafluoro-ethylene (Teflon® PTFE),polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and other fluoropolymers such asperfluoroalkoxy (PFA) and its derivatives, MFA (co-polymer oftetrafluoroethylene and perfluoromethyl vinyl ether and sold under thename Hyflon), fluorinated ethylene propylene polymer (FEP) and the like.The filter can also be constructed from fibrous material, including, butnot limited to, microfibers and nanofibers of polyethylene,polypropylene, nylon, polyester, carbon, fiberglass, polypropylenesulfide (PPS), Polytetrafluoro-ethylene (Teflon® PTFE), celluloseincluding cellulose/diatomaceous earth or silica blends,cellulose/carbon particles or fibers, cellulose/ion exchange resins, asare available from general media suppliers, as well as combinations ofany of the disclosed filter media materials.

The quick couplings, in modular or integral form, are configured to becompatible with coupling components manufactured and sold by, by way ofexample and not limitation, LinkTech (Ventura, Calif.), Colder PlasticsCompany (St. Paul, Minn.) and John Guest Corp. (Fairfield, N.J.). Thecheck valves may be of any conventional variety known in the art thatensures one-way flow (or two-way flow when the valve is maintained in anopen position) of fluids and/or gases that flow through the capsules.Examples include those sold by the aforementioned companies. It shouldfurther be understood that the male/female configuration of the set ofquick-connect couplings incorporated onto a capsule may be all male, allfemale, or a combination of both depending upon the particularapplication.

In a yet further aspect of the disclosure, male connectors having twomale ends may be used to connect two or more filter capsules havingports with integrated female connection fittings so as to form a filtertrain wherein each capsule of the train may enclose the same ordifferent filters depending upon the particular application of the filertrain. It should be further understood the disclosure also encompassesand contemplates filter capsules with ports having integrated maleconnection fittings attachable to corresponding female connectors andcombinations thereof.

It should be further understood multiple filter capsules can be formedin a train with either detachable male and female fittings disclosedherein, or via fusing or bonding two or more capsules together asdisclosed in my co-pending application, U.S. Ser. No. 61/562,190, thecontents of which are incorporated in their entirety herein byreference. This construction enables the formation of long filter trainsthat do not impact the function of any of the filter media as the weightof each filter is limited and supported by the separate capsules. Thisconstruction also effectively eliminates the need for additionalfittings and tubing between two or more capsules.

While the present disclosure has been described in connection withseveral embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in theart that many changes and modifications may be made without departingfrom the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly,it as intended by the appended claims to cover all such changes andmodifications as come within the true spirit and scope of thedisclosure.

What I claim as new and desire to secure by United States Letters Patentis: 1-52. (canceled)
 53. A disposable filter capsule apparatuscomprising: a capsule body having portions defining a filter chamber; afilter secured in the chamber; at least one inlet port having an innerwall defining a port chamber in fluid communication with the filterchamber wherein the port extends from the capsule body, and wherein aninner junction of the capsule body and the port forms a tapered annularwall having a small diameter end and a large diameter end, wherein thesmall diameter end connects to the port chamber; a quick connect fittingintegral to the at least one inlet port; an O-ring-free and rigiddual-flange check valve secured in the at lest one inlet port, whereinthe check valve defines an inner valve chamber and comprises a bottomflange and a top flange, wherein the bottom flange has a frustoconicallyshaped upper surface, wherein the bottom flange upper surface hasportions defining a plurality of concentrically oriented annularshoulders of consecutively larger cross-sectional diameters and arrangedalong the axial length of the bottom flange upper surface so as tocollectively foam a uniformly sloped, uniformly serrated, frusto-conicalflange in cross-section, wherein the uniform slope of the combinedannular shoulders is substantially parallel with the slope of thetapered a annular wall, and wherein an annular apex of each annularshoulder registers against the tapered annular wall to form amulti-segmented face seal when the check valve is in a closed position;and, a valve retention ring secured in the capsule body and registeredagainst the check valve.
 54. The filter capsule of claim 53 wherein thetop flange extends radially outwardly from a top end of the check valveand is dimensioned to fit within the port chamber.
 55. The filtercapsule of claim 54 wherein the top flange further comprises a pluralityof valve flange segments extending radially outwardly from a top surfaceof the top flange.
 56. The filter capsule of claim 55 wherein the checkvalve further comprises at least one lateral port in fluid communicationwith the port chamber and the inner valve chamber.
 57. The filtercapsule of claim 55 wherein the valve stem comprises a first segmenthaving portions defining a first segment press-fit surface and havingthe portions defining the flange, and a second segment having portionsdefining a second segment press-fit surface and having the plurality ofvalve flanges, wherein the first segment press-fit surface is connectedto the second segment press-fit surface.
 58. The filter capsule of claim53 wherein the valve retention ring further comprises an annularperimeter ring with a plurality of flexible retention levers extendingradially inwardly from the perimeter ring, wherein the plurality ofretention levers register against the check valve stem.
 59. The filtercapsule of claim 58 wherein the plurality of retention levers registeragainst one another at about a center point of the valve retention ring.60. The filter capsule of claim 53 wherein the flange has portionsdefining a frustoconically shaped surface, wherein the surface registersagainst the tapered annular wall to foam a face seal when the checkvalve is in a closed position.
 61. The filter capsule of claim 53wherein the port further comprises a top flange having portions defininga flange channel, and wherein the quick connect fitting is structured asa female fitting and comprises a locking sleeve engaged in the channel,a sleeve-releasing latch secured to the top flange and having portionsengaged in the channel in registration with the locking sleeve and alocking pin secured in a bore formed in the wall of the port, whereinthe sleeve has portions defining a slot and wherein the locking pinpasses through the slot.
 62. The filter capsule of claim 53 wherein thequick connect fitting comprises a male quick connect fitting.
 63. Thefilter capsule of claim 62 wherein the male fitting comprises: a malefitting body having an inner wall defining a male port chamber; anintegral sleeve housing extending from the body, wherein the sleevehousing defines a sleeve housing chamber; a male insertion tube havingportions defining a tube chamber and male lateral ports in fluidcommunication with the housing chamber, wherein the insertion tube isdimensioned and configured to fit within the sleeve housing chamber,wherein the insertion tube can slide within the chamber, and wherein adistal end of the tube extends beyond a distal end of the sleevehousing; and, a plunger structured and dimensioned to fit within thesleeve housing, wherein the plunger has portions defining a tapereddistal end, wherein the distal end registers against a proximal end ofthe insertion tube, and wherein the plunger has portions defining anannular plunger shoulder at a proximal end.
 64. The filter capsule ofclaim 63 wherein the male quick connect fitting further comprises aspring secured in the male port chamber and a cap secured to a distalend of the male fitting body, wherein the cap has portions defining aspring chamber in fluid communication with the male port chamber andfurther portions defining an outlet port in fluid communication with thespring chamber, and wherein one end of the spring registers against theplunger shoulder and the other end of the spring registers against thecap.
 65. The filter capsule of claim 64 further comprising an O-ring,wherein the sleeve housing has portions defining an annular outer O-ringchannel formed proximal to a distal end of the sleeve housing, whereinthe O-ring is secured in the O-ring channel.
 66. The filter capsule ofclaim 65 further comprising an annular lock channel formed on the sleevehousing for receiving the locking sleeve of the female quick connectfitting when the male fitting and female fitting are merged together.67. The filter capsule of claim 53 wherein the filter comprises a singlelayer with pore sizes from about 0.01 microns to about 50 microns. 68.The filter capsule of claim 53 wherein the filter comprises a pluralityof membrane layers wherein each layer has the same pore size from about0.01 microns to about 50 microns.
 69. The filter capsule of claim 53wherein the filter comprises a plurality of membrane layers wherein eachlayer has a different pore size each within the range of about 0.01microns to about 50 microns.
 70. The filter capsule of claim 53 whereinthe filter comprises at least one microporous, hydrophilic orhydrophobic membrane, constructed from materials selected from the groupconsisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyethersulfone,polysulfone, cellulose acetate, Polytetrafluoro-ethylene (Teflon® PTFE),polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) and itsderivatives MFA (co-polymer of tetrafluoroethylene and perfluoromethylvinyl ether, fluorinated ethylene propylene polymer (FEP) and mixturesthereof.
 71. The filter capsule of claim 53 wherein the filter comprisesa fibrous material selected from the group consisting of microfibers andnanofibers of polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyester, carbon,fiberglass, polypropylene sulfide (PPS), Polytetrafluoro-ethylene(Teflon® PTFE), cellulose including cellulose/diatomaceous earth, orsilica blends, cellulose/carbon particles or fibers, cellulose/ionexchange resins and mixtures thereof.
 72. The filter capsule of claim 53further comprising: at least one outlet port defining an outlet portchamber wherein the port extends from, and is integral to, the capsulebody, and wherein a second inner junction of the capsule body and theoutlet port forms a second tapered annular wall; a second quick connectfitting integral to the at least one outlet port; a second check valvesecured in the at least one outlet wherein the second check valveregisters against the second tapered annular wall to form a second faceseal when the second check valve is in a closed position; and, a secondvalve retention ring secured in the capsule body and registered againstthe second check valve.